Start Strong: 5 Essentials Every Afterschool Program Needs This Back to School Season 

A new school year brings fresh energy and is the perfect time to take stock and restock. Whether you’ve got a solid system or are still building the foundation of your afterschool program, having the right materials on hand sets the tone for a smooth, engaging, and productive season. 

From hands-on learning tools to calming kits and active play supplies, here are essential supply areas to spark students’ creativity, focus, and connection. 

1) Arts & Crafts Supplies

Craft time is a staple of afterschool programming as it encourages creativity, builds fine motor skills, and gives kids a much-needed outlet for expression. Refreshing your stash of glue, scissors, markers, and crafting kits ensures your projects stay engaging and mess-free. 

Top Picks to Restock: 

• Color Splash® Instant Art Easy Pack 
• EduCraft® Kaleidoscopes Craft Kit
• Color Splash!® Paints 
• Construction Paper

2) Physical Activity & Sports Equipment

Movement isn’t just fun, it’s essential, especially after a full day of learning. Outdoor play, structured games, and team activities build coordination, cooperation, and confidence. Replace worn-out balls, cones, jump ropes, and other must-haves now to avoid mid-season meltdowns. 

Must-Haves to Refresh: 

• Spectrum™ Playground Balls
• Ultimate No-Knott™ Hoops and Connector Clips Easy Pack  
• Beaded Jump Rope 
• Cone and Spot Marker Easy Pack
• Recreation Easy Pack

3) Calming Kits & Sensory Tools

Every program needs a plan for downtime. Whether it’s for students who need to decompress or simply creating a peaceful transition, having a refreshed calming area or sensory station can make all the difference. 

Tools to Update: 

• Calming Kits   
• Therapeutic Art Activities Kit
• Kinetic Sand 
• DIY Glitter Slime Making Easy Pack 

4) Refresh Math Games & Manipulatives

Make math engaging by introducing fresh games and hands-on materials. These tools reinforce classroom learning and make abstract concepts concrete without the pressure of a formal lesson. 

Smart Restocks: 

• Play Money Sets
• Pattern Blocks
• Unifix® Interlocking Counting Cubes
• Graph Paper

5) Update Your Group Games & Team Challenges

Group activities are more than just a way to pass the time, they help kids build communication, cooperation, and problem-solving skills in a fun and supportive setting. Whether it’s a fast-paced relay or a collaborative board game, these shared experiences create opportunities for connection and teamwork. Refresh your supply of indoor and outdoor games to keep things fun and organized. 

Popular Restocks: 

• Twangled – Group Untangling Activity 
• Skillastics® Fitness Game 
• Indoor Jumbo Floor Football Pack 

Bonus: Revisit Your Room Setup & Storage 

Don’t overlook how your environment impacts student behavior and staff efficiency. Now’s a great time to replace worn-out seating, add flexible storage, or rethink your layout to support smoother transitions. A refreshed space can reduce stress, minimize disruptions, and make both students and staff feel more comfortable and motivated. 

Ideas to Consider: 

• Jonti-Craft® Berries™ Stackable Chairs 
• Round Floor Cushions With Handle Set 
• Mobile Storage Options
• Jonti-Craft® Single-Sided Easel

Ready, Set, Refresh! 

The start of the year is your chance to set a positive tone and the right supplies make all the difference. Whether you need to spark creativity, support skill development, or organize your space, S&S Worldwide has everything you need to make this your strongest season yet. 

👉 Browse all afterschool essentials here and get your program ready to roll.